The Royal Succession (The Accursed Kings, Book 4) is another brilliant example of superb writing that to this reader is the pinnacle of historical fiction and literary entertainment. This series takes my breath away every time I open the pages on another reign of the House of Capet and needless to say The Royal Succession did not disappoint. The Royal Succession is the fourth installment of The Accursed Kings series and enfolds history and vivid descriptions of French chronicles to create a harrowing saga of intrigue, destiny, murder, revenge and loss of innocence. Each novel continues the saga of the previous installment and I would strongly encourage those interested to please read the previous three novels (The Iron King, The Strangled Queen and The Poisoned Crown) before attempting The Royal Succession; however each novel does contain a review of previous novels and events so the decision is yours to make. This novel's timeline only spans from June 1316 to January 9 1317 and follows the absence of a sovereign, the anticipated birth of a posthumous heir and detached manoeuvres of church and court. What transpires behind the empty throne is a succession of events that will ultimately throw the country of France and England into a bloody struggle for power. In The Royal Succession more imaginative drama is presented to the reader than the previous novels, history of course is kept in mind and follows events as close as possible but shocking counterplots are sure to keep readers up late trying to guess what will happen next. I highly recommend The Royal Succession and The Accursed Kings series to those who have a passion for history and a desire to discover a refined collection of novels that are sure to amuse and haunt the reader. -read first at the local library and then purchased for kindle Books in this series: The Iron King (The Accursed Kings, Book 1) by Maurice Druon The Strangled Queen (The Accursed Kings, Book 2) by Maurice Druon The Poisoned Crown (The Accursed Kings, Book 3) by Maurice Druon *The Royal Succession (The Accursed Kings, Book 4) by Maurice Druon The She-Wolf (The Accursed Kings, Book 5) by Maurice Druon The Lily and the Lion (The Accursed Kings, Book 6) by Maurice Druon The King Without a Kingdom (The Accursed Kings, Book 7) by Maurice Druon -EGP/August 2014 Let's start over, old sport... Call me a sentimental goose but I love The Great Gatsby. This is a classic that contains so many beautiful passages that simply deserves a second chance from certain readers. I see now that this is a wonderful story that captures and holds so many different facets of topics and subjects set to the brilliance of the early 1920's. Like so many others, I was exposed at an early age to this work and needless to say I did not have a pleasant literary or learning experience with this book and it has just left an unpleasant taste for me. Perhaps this has happened to you and you can name a title that you were forced into endlessly dissecting or for whatever reasons and it all had unintentional results of creating rancor directed at a particular book. Perhaps this is that book, may I be the first to say maybe it's time to let the past go and give The Great Gatsby a second look. If you are like me you love concept of the story or setting and know the symbolism by heart and if nothing else may just read it for the history, expressive passages and dimensional characterizations. However wonderful the reading experience, this reader did notice some unanswered questions that lingered on the last pages that were hard to forget or ignore and a few confusing poetic metaphorical passages that left a sense of reading two incomplete books in one. I will be honest, I did feel that old frustration bubbling in the beginning but as soon as the descriptive section about the narrator's initial encounter with Mr. Jay Gatsby and his unforgettable smile that frustration fell away and the book seemed to say to this reader: "let's start over, old sport" and after that I just lost myself in the experience and rediscovered another classic. -rediscovered classic, purchased and read on kindle -EGP/July 2014 In The Custom of the Country Edith Wharton uses biting satire to create one of the most callous self indolent characters ever construed onto paper. But it is the subtle brilliance of Ms. Wharton's writing that captures the epitome of the aristocratic hierarchy of the early 20th century and follows its main attraction that is Ms. Undine Spragg as she aims to climb the social ladder of monetary pursuits by any means and will not stop as long as her mirror reflects her commented beauty and youth, that is what makes this a rediscovered gem of a classic. Told in a watcher in the window style the reader is given a full length view of character's inner most thoughts and desires. Although on the surface The Custom of the Country may seem a dated work that centers on a selfish young woman who destroys lives of everyone she comes in contact with, the patient reader may discover multifaceted passages in this title. Not only does Ms. Wharton capture and effectively fashion rancor toward her monetary endowed characters but she also seizes complicated behaviors and "customs" of marriage, other social classes and nationalities that may lead to some entertaining debates for any interested book discussion group to pass the time with. A little patience is asked of the reader who decides to explore this sometimes overlooked classic, Ms. Wharton writes in the flourishing descriptive style and the contemporary reader may find too much is asked of them and stop reading within a few chapters but please don't. Stay with this one, you may end up really loving The Custom of the Country like I did. I find these kinds of titles pull me in if I let them and just enjoy the experience, although I enjoyed The House of Mirth a little more than The Custom of the Country I would still recommend this title for those who would like to find a forgotten classic about the magnetic aristocratic world of the early 20th century. -borrowed from local library and then purchased for kindle -EGP/July 2014 A wickedly decadent experience for the reader with discerning tastes when it comes to their historical fiction With a touch of true crime, an even dose of superstitions supplied by the rolling heath covered hills and mysterious looming standing stones of Brittany France, a dash of dark imaginative absurdity and a pouring of sinister French history- The Poisoning Angel is a wickedly decadent experience for the reader with discerning tastes when it comes to their historical fiction. This is an unconventional but entertaining study of 19th-century human behavior and beliefs that is set to the backdrop of an imaginative story of Hélène Jégado and her infamous deeds and travels around the kitchens and homes of unsuspecting 19th-century France. Mr. Teulé caters to those who have a morbid curiosity of certain details in history and does not disappoint with this guilty pleasure read that follows the true and a few fictional crimes of Hélène Jégado as she travels from hamlet to towns with the incessant squeak of her obsession in the forefront of her twisted mind--she is death's helper and she has a lot of work to do. Along with the journey of Helene or "Thunderflower" as she is referred throughout the story there are also the lingering shadows of Breton customs that range from cautionary to bizarre but aim to fascinate and pull the reader into the battling beliefs of the time period. Two worlds are about to collide, an outside world dominated by the advances in science, medicine and industry and one sleepy hamlet that is ruled by folklore and old religion. Ah but no matter how advanced, prepared and confident a society appears to be; we must remember that death and misfortune can visit anyone. Is the science obsessed outside world ready to taste a little of the old world? -read and purchased on kindle -EGP/July 2014 Let your hair down and enjoy a tale about seven aberrant sisters and mother Ireland With names that dance on the reader's tongue like Oona, Berenice, Enda, Pertilly, Ida, Darcy and Manticory- The True and Splendid History of The Harristown Sisters is a rare gem of a read that is sure to surprise readers. Set in Ireland during the mid and late 19th century this novel first starts in humble and tragic circumstances introducing the reader to a flock of Irish sisters who all share an abundant amount of hair and pleasing voices. Fear of continued poverty, perverse coercion and maltreatment soon forces the Swiney sisters onto stage performing satisfactory songs and dances to a seated audience, it is only when the sisters sit themselves and unfurl their locks that the magic and simple genius of this performance reach the feet and imaginations of the captivated viewers and offers a tempting prospect for the seven Swiney Godivas. Narrated by one of the sisters, the reader is immediately exposed to the poverty and misery that infested Ireland during this period. The famine during the mid and late 19th century is brought to vivid light complete with all the drudgery and morbid elements while keeping the flow and continuation of the story in mind that the narrator touches on details but never lingers too long to lose the reader in the muck. As the pages turn the writing quickly becomes poetic and the narrator continues in this fashion in a very unique storytelling style that may delight many readers but may annoy others. The gentle reader is warned that graphic passages lurk in these pages (acts of cruelty and depravity directed at animals and humans) that although lends to the harsh reality of the time period may overstep entertainment boundaries for some readers. The True and Splendid History of the Harristown Sisters may have its foundation in history loosely basing details on the tragic and fascinating story of the real life Sutherland Sisters but the novel also harbors dark tendrils of Gothic elements that interlaces with dark parables and perfectly relevant maladies to create a unique story that will surprise the reader who doubts in this tale of hair. True the main bones of the story consist of an obsession of tresses or mania for long locks and the travels of seven sisters but there is so much more waiting for the brave reader. So let your hair down and enjoy a tale of seven aberrant sisters and mother Ireland with The True and Splendid History of The Harristown Sisters. * I would like to thank Bloomsbury USA and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and enjoy The True and Splendid History of The Harristown Sisters -EGP/May 2014 Sisters of Treason is your next read if you delight in a story where history comes alive before your eyes Multifaceted viewpoints of the bloody game for power that consumed 16th-century England create this gripping tale of poisonous fate, consequences of choices and battles for survival. The reader follows the keyhole views of Mary and Katherine Grey who live with the daily fear of being sent to the executioner's block as their brother-in-law, older sister and father before them for treason. An outsider's view is also supplied by following Levina Teerlinc a talented artist who paints miniature portraits of the English court, forms a unique bound with the Grey family and allows the reader a commoner's view of the shifting decrees and opinions of the widespread public. These three women must somehow transverse the narrow razor edge of favor with the Grey's fickle ordained cousins who with one word and flourish of a sharpened quill pen could sentence all three to the dreaded Tower, banishment or send them to their grisly deaths at the hand of the executioner. With these looming threats the sisters must make choices that will ultimately affect everyone involved but what are the right choices? Katherine Grey wants to be loved, her younger sister Mary wants her freedom from the gilded cage of palace life and Levina Teerlinc wants to keep her family safe and untouched by the danger that surrounds them. This is the ultimate game of survival where it seems no one can be trusted, there may not be any easy solutions and the simple fact that if a drop of Tudor blood flows in a man, woman, or child in 16th-century England they could be next to kneel to the axe. I was pleasantly surprised with Sisters of Treason. I will be honest, I was envisioning only a brushed over flimsy history lesson with weak characters and anachronistic language, terminology and actions. While I did find a few modish scenes in the beginning that did cause a brief interruption the second part to the novel had me barely remembering those few scenes and overall applauding such a creative and historically polished work. The depth the novel went with the characterizations of the central figures, minor characters and the smooth transition of the shifting narrations and views never confused this reader and I knew exactly who I was following, listening to, or who was in the room in each chapter so any curious reader who may not be familiar with the multiple names from history be assured that Ms. Fremantle has spun every: Mary, Jane, Elizabeth, Kate, John, Henry, Thomas and Edward into a vibrant fleshed out entity that really brings history to life for her audience. Details are also shared with the reader that leaves a clear distinction what era we are experiencing and even explains the conflicting religious turmoil and court politics in a clear entertaining fashion. I did find the action a little slow in the beginning but then the second part made up for this when the risks escalate and well you will just have to wait and see. Overall, this was an unexpected engaging read that I recommend to those who are just finding a fascination with 16th-century English History, delight in a story where history comes alive before their eyes or those who are familiar with the maelstrom of events and are curious to further explore the other side of the Tudor family tree. * I would like to thank Simon & Schuster and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and enjoy Sisters of Treason Also in this series: Queen's Gambit (The Tudor Trilogy, #1) by Elizabeth Fremantle Watch the Lady (The Tudor Trilogy, #3) by Elizabeth Fremantle -EGP/June 2014 Picture it darlings, if Sophia Petrillo-Weinstock had a profane, outrageous and candid distant famous cousin named Lillian Dunkle Everyone loves a villain and practically everyone loves ice cream, so what a perfect combination in this a life revisited through the words of a woman who is dubbed The Ice Cream Queen of America and yet in the early 1980's is a celebrated pariah who is about to face the tabloids, the all too eager accusing public eye and critical fight to salvage her image, career and life. It is open season on Lillian M. Dunkle as the courtroom and papers play out as a bad scandalous episode of "This is Your Life" and her once brilliant empire of cold whipped butterfat, milk substitute and corn syrup seems to melt before eyes, but wait this is not a tragedy oh no Lillian stands with her own crown of dignity and tells the reader her side of events before they pass judgment. So picture it darlings a back and forth tale of struggles, humble tragic beginnings and rise from obscurity with an extreme and unconventional narrator who uses blunt and sometimes crass wicked humor to relate the moments of her life. Who knew ice cream played so much an integral role in America during the 20th century (at least according to our anti-heroine), with sharp wit and candid access the reader is privy to this hard to ignore magnetic being who seems to have more than 36 flavors of personality and stories to tell. So pull out your favorite ice cream out of the freezer, try to ignore the summer heat and enjoy a real treat with The Ice Cream Queen of Orchard Street. In the end, the unaccustomed weather is what drove this reader to sample The Ice Cream Queen of Orchard Street and I am very happy I did, this was a wonderful entertaining treat that helped me ignore the mugginess outside. The integral whipped combination of history and unconventional narrator had me sneaking away to my kindle at any available moment and I finished this title very quickly. Lillian Dunkle was a charismatic personality that reminded me of Sophia Petrillo-Weinstock (played by the beloved late Estelle Getty) with all the spunk and ease of spinning an engrossing story with a pearl of wisdom hidden deep inside. In Lillian's case though more profanity, wicked humor and manipulation is whipped into her story and also combines the drama and negative publicity of: Joan Crawford, Martha Stewart and the extravagance of Zsa Zsa Gabor and Leona Helmsley to create a believable character that dares the reader to judge before her side of events are shared. I loved the history and details of the fanciful field of ice cream, it seemed more of a confessional behind the locked gates of Willy Wonka's factory learning the secrets of the trade and what drives the consumption and desire of the public. And the forgotten theories on the devastating disease Poliomyelitis were fascinating from a medical standpoint and really pulled this reader in further. Not only a funny read there are also pages of sadness and transformation that caused a few tears to fall (especially at the end)- Ms. Gilman's has a talent with description and building a heart-rending scene. Overall, I would recommend this read for those who need a good laugh, the outrageous scenarios are sure to surprise or cause a smile and you may learn something. So enjoy! * I would like to thank Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and enjoy The Ice Cream Queen of Orchard Street -EGP/July 2014 A compelling title that is more than what it seems Don't judge this book by its cover. Succession may seem a benign rendering of history told by the dual perspectives of Margaret of Anjou and Margaret Beaufort purporting all the surrenders of romance, fettered views of the rise and fall of the Lancaster and York houses concentrating on frivolous trappings and precious else during 15th-century England but Succession by Livi Michael is actually a compelling tableau of history that is sure to excite history enthusiasts or those who appreciate a brilliantly delivered story. Presented in a distinct clever style Succession combines imaginative dialogue, rich description, a touch of lyrical prose and brilliantly depicted historical events to weave a tale chocked full of: premeditated treachery, all consuming greed, loss of innocence, murder most foul and the strong personalities that dominated the sides of the dynastic Wars of the Roses. Whether the curious reader is unfamiliar with the years or events that led to and followed the uneven rise and fall of the houses of Lancaster and York that historians delight in debating to this day, they are sure to be swept into a convincing tale that not only focuses on views of the 15th-century court but also pulls brief narration from the common man and woman. Machinations that consumed minds and corrupted hearts and its further consequences are shared with the reader in a concise fashion that fully captures the monumental events that affected the rich, poor and left a country torn with loyalty to either the red rose (for the house of Lancaster) or the white rose (for the house of York). Characters are divided by their houses (at times even representing both), cast in multifaceted light and dark shadows of personality and alliances and are heralded in chapters with the red or white rose insignia to aid the reader in understanding the character the chapter focuses on. Chapters are also introduced in a scholarly fashion with a selection from a chronicle, register, calendar roll or ballad that then is spun into a tableau of that event for the entertainment of the reader following a central character and continuing the time frame of events cleverly moving the story along without the need to backtrack and explain a journey or lesser battle. Although, Succession could even at times confuse those familiar with the history, events and central figures and even share in excess certain scenes and over dramatize at times- this is still a compelling title that is sure to entertain and encourage further study. If the reader desires more, it is clear Succession explains only part one of the events of the Wars of the Roses and there is still much to be told. -read and purchased on kindle Also in this series: Rebellion (Margaret Beaufort and Margaret of Anjou, #2) by Livi Michael Accession (Margaret Beaufort and Margaret of Anjou, #3) by Livi Michael -EGP/June 2014 A bizarrely wonderful ride through 17th-century France The Hurlyburly's Husband (also published under the title: Monsieur Montespan) is a unique love story that takes the reader on a bizarrely wonderful ride through 17th-century France with a king, a mistress and a cuckold as the main attractions. Dark humor, tragic romance, interesting although vile details (concerning 17th-century hygiene habits and sanitary conditions) and raunchy passages (you may never want to wear a strand of pearls again) create this salacious romp, that the reader is certain to remember days later. The Hurlyburly's Husband is a love story about a cuckold (Louis Henri de Pardaillan de Gondrin, marquis de Montespan), who is humiliated by the King of France (King Louis XIV) when his lewd favor falls on Françoise-Athénaïs, marquise de Montespan and alters the marquis de Montespan's whole perception of France and the monarchy. His undying love and devotion to his wife becomes a central theme as the husband battles for the return of his wife and revenge against King Louis but when the glittering palace of Versailles weaves its wicked charms on Françoise will she want to return to her simple life? What else can the king possibly do to further ruin the marquis de Montespan's life? The answers and the steps Louis Henri follows in the fervent hope of being reunited with his beloved and show defiance to his sovereign are sure to shock the curious reader. So if the interested reader has a unique brand of humor, is interested in the crude parts of history that few references will note and enjoys a well crafted story about a bizarre love story- The Hurlyburly's Husband is your next read. * I would like to thank Gallic Books and Edelweiss for the opportunity to read and enjoy The Hurlyburly's Husband -EGP/May 2014 Confession is good for the soul and this narrator has much to reveal... This imaginative re-stitching of 13th-century historical events uses the fictional confessions of King Edward I's lead court jester and fool to sit the reader in a dark corner of a monastery and listen to a story of the making of a king and tale of a shrewd fool. Through the mists of time Hamo Pauncefoot reveals his involvement in historical events from 1253-1274 to a monk he has hired to document the story of his life. The narration takes on dark eloquent styling and magnificent character representation; characters are magnified by this narration and of course embellished for the sake of the story and the narrator's royal benefactors. If readers are familiar with The Lymond Chronicles by Dorothy Dunnett or Bernard Cornwell's Warlord Chronicles then you may find another antihero in Hamo Pauncefoot. The reader is taken to this fool's humble beginnings and then witnesses Hamo's all consuming obsession of advancement of life and status which he believes can be obtained by providing his distinct set of services to the young prince Edward. Set to the backdrop of England during the mid-13th century the reader is privy to the intimate complicated relationships and manipulations of the court of King Henry III. As the story progresses the locations thunder on from battle fields, to towns, to clandestine rooms of taverns, to the holy crusade and back again with always Hamo Pauncefoot under the table or in a corner collecting vital information for his advances. This narration takes on a delicious dark phrasing that leaves more of a convincing representation of the mid-13th century, characters are painted with flaws and very few are described as faultless. Piety and virtue serve little in this story, greed and lust for power reigns over this storyline. In the end, although a few anachronistic terms in the dialogue briefly pulled this reader from this striking narration and the middle sagged with the different excursions, these can be forgotten with the twists and surprises that leapt from the corners of The Chronicles of Pauncefoot and Longshanks: The Making of a King. The footnotes at the end were a creative touch that leant more validity to the beginning claim that this story is true and recently discovered in 2007; all research and implantation was explained and (to this reader) showed superb attention to detail. Finally the sometimes awkward formation and execution of showing time and births to the reader were seamless in this narration (a very hard thing to accomplish). Overall this was gem of a read, an original story that I highly recommend for those readers who enjoy a more realistic view of this time period, those who enjoy reading about the machinations of a mind born into misery and desperation and another game for the control of England. The ending clearly indicates a sequel and this reader eagerly awaits the next installment about this shrewd narrator. * I would like to thank Troubador Publishing Ltd and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and enjoy The Chronicles of Pauncefoot and Longshanks: The Making of a King -EGP/May 2014 This is the story of the Titanic's final days and her ultimate voyage into history. You know the famous names associated with her, you know or heard of the myths and legends about her and her passengers, you even know her fate, now hear the haunting voices from the Titanic with a true classic. Whether the reader has a causal interest sparked by silver screen dramatizations, a morbid curiosity of history or is a long time armchair enthusiast of the story, facts and myths all surrounding the Titanic- A Night to Remember is an unforgettable classic that appeals to every type of reader. A Night to Remember is told in a riveting fashion that first captures the atmosphere of that cold April night and continues to build a detailed account of the ship and her passenger's fates between April 10 to 19 1912. Written in 1955, Walter Lord has left a stunning piece of meticulous fiction that melds magnetic storytelling with harrowing accounts from the survivors of history's most famous and recognized maritime disaster. Well known and little known facts are abound in this work and the reader is sure to learn something new with each flip of the page. Beautifully executed with haunting accounts and thought-provoking this novel even ends with the final pages paying a somber tribute with the listed names of the survivors and those who perished. An appropriate ending to a story of the Titanic's final days and her ultimate voyage into history. -read and purchased on kindle -EGP/April 2014 Have a little faith and take a journey with The Miracle Thief The Miracle Thief is an elegant read that interweaves the tales of a penitent, a pilgrim and a princess into a beautiful story of hope and faith. Set in 10th-century France, The Miracle Thief takes the reader on a somber journey of revelation with three separate narrators as the voices of an era plunged into the darkest of times. In the heart of the story is the search for an individual miracle from Saint Catherine of Alexandria and as the story continues the reader may realize that there is so much more hidden in the pages than just this simple observation. History and Religion intertwine to create some fascinating details, conditions and depending on the reader you may be awed by the execution of such a daring novel and just enjoy the experience. So have a little faith and take a journey with The Miracle Thief. -read and purchased on kindle -EGP/April 2014 The Poisoned Crown (The Accursed Kings, Book 3) is another literary gem in the crown of author Maurice Druon's legacy. Simply this is a brilliant series that illustrates sublime research, distinct writing mastery and should not be missed by those who love classic historical fiction. The Poisoned Crown is the third installment of The Accursed Kings series which follows the shattered reigns of the House of Capet. Each novel continues the saga of the previous installment and I would strongly encourage those interested to please read the previous two novels (The Iron King and The Strangled Queen) before attempting The Poisoned Crown. This novel's timeline is only 10 months, spanning from 1315 to 1316 and follows the chaotic reign of Louis X as he battles for his mark in history while being encircled by trials of authority, intelligence and faith. Past sins are revealed and repeated, while 14th-century France is being destroyed by famine, war, and impending revolt. Who will survive in this world of unbalance, where not even a unicorn's horn may be able to stop the wheel of fate? Which soul will be next to taste the relentless curse of the Templar? With galloping action filled chapters, brilliant execution of research and details, and all with even a touch of the darkest fairytale styling. This is history told by one the finest and it awaits the eager reader. * I would like to thank HarperCollins publisher and Edelweiss for the opportunity to read and enjoy The Poisoned Crown (The Accursed Kings, Book 3) Books in this series: The Iron King (The Accursed Kings, Book 1) by Maurice Druon The Strangled Queen (The Accursed Kings, Book 2) by Maurice Druon *The Poisoned Crown (The Accursed Kings, Book 3) by Maurice Druon The Royal Succession (The Accursed Kings, Book 4) by Maurice Druon The She-Wolf (The Accursed Kings, Book 5) by Maurice Druon The Lily and the Lion (The Accursed Kings, Book 6) by Maurice Druon The King Without a Kingdom (The Accursed Kings, Book 7) by Maurice Druon -EGP/April 2014 Beware the monsters that lurk beneath the waves...and the monsters that walk on land. History is unfortunately full of tales of maritime disasters from the infamous Titanic to the controversial disappearance of the small crew aboard the Mary Celeste. The sea it seems is truly a cruel mistress but what happens when the destruction of a ship is not only remembered as a disaster but as an example of the ultimate deprivation of the human essence. What could happen when the limits of the human endurance is pushed to the edge? To Die a Dry Death: The True Story of the Batavia Shipwreck is a story that weaves that question into a dark tale based on the salvaged records of those who experienced the unimaginable. The story begins in an Amsterdam tavern a few years after the tragedy; a harmless question from a stranger then slips the reader into a sea tale that rapidly explains why the Batavia Shipwreck is such a horrific event. With imaginative writing that takes the reader on a macabre journey into the minds of those possessed by greed, lust and misplaced motives- never believe the pages will skip any details. Characters are enriched into commanding entities that will have the reader applauding such a daring undertaking of recreating history. For those interested, there are a few passages of lust but these are strategically placed and do not abruptly intrude on the storyline but only enhance the ever circling psychological components of the characters. Although the story can be a little confusing in the beginning in regards to the placement of the characters (a map may have been helpful), symbolic messages are explained rather than hidden and the opening action measured that all quickly changes and creates one distinctive adventure that not only explores one of history's overlooked halls of maritime disasters but also delves the depths of human desperation and battles for survival. * I would like to thank Fingerpress publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and enjoy To Die a Dry Death: The True Story of the Batavia Shipwreck -EGP/March 2014 "Our world was not a world for weakness. It was a world for strength and survival." 1930. In the remote forests of the Ukraine the people live in fear. They fear the closed in dark forests and its nightmare inducing inhabitants. They fear the cold and the looming hunger. And finally they fear outsiders because a knock on their doors in the dead of night could mean the end of families or lives. This is an age of terror that is consumed by paranoia and madness that has been incited by the new regime. In this world Luka Mikhailovich Sidorov tries to escape the suffocating emotions and poisoned whispers from the small village of Vyriv and also seek refuge from the negative thoughts that threaten to seep from the corners of his mind by traveling onto the punishing snowy steppes and hunt for small game. It is during one of these excursions an outsider is sighted walking toward the village but is this stranger a possible ally or the beginning of the end for Luka and his family? The cross-hairs of Luka's rifle are centered on the stranger and he must make a decision that will ultimately change his life and his family's... The Child Thief is an excellent Historical thriller that immediately pulls the reader in and conveys the raw emotion of the time period. Details of the era are shared with the reader and lead to seamless distinction of what historical period the novel is set. In a vintage fashion that is reminiscent of Jack London the descriptions of the frozen landscape and character portrayal is something not to be missed. Characters are built with flaws, and lead to a real potential connection with the reader. The use of one of the most prominent fables of the setting of the novel may be a surprise and delight any reader who is familiar with the tale of Baba Yaga. The only possible negatives I can report are that at times a few major points in the novel could be easily predicted and sadly the ending was disappointing for this reviewer. Negatives aside, above all The Child Thief is a suspenseful journey that has many dark twists and turns that will have readers enjoying long into the winter nights so the interested reader may want to pull out their favorite blanket. -read and purchased on kindle -EGP/December 2013 An impressive homage to a beloved classic. Tucked in the final pages of The Other Typist is a single line that reveals that one of the author's major inspirations was The Great Gatsby and it is very easy to recognize the connection in terms of imagery, understated messages, motifs and not to mention both being great reads. However alike, The Other Typist sets itself apart from its inspiration by offering the reader the opportunity to experience and discover the more celebratory and seeder side of the 1920's with a police precinct office typist as their guide. The tone is set early that a darker theme will reveal itself and once that apparent tone is exposed the book morphs into a puzzling mind bending narrative that ends with more questions than answers, but please do not let this aspect scare away any curious readers. The perplexing fixated nature of the narrator is only half of the allure you will uncover in The Other Typist and although the line of obsession is clearly crossed and the severity of crimes escalates with the chapters they are never described in gruesome detail. Overall The Other Typist is a multifaceted historical thriller that should not be missed or given up on after the first complex chapter. In the end, I very thankful I did not give up on the first couple chapters. Once I began to understand the narrator's voice and flow of description the book then became quite enjoyable. The Other Typist had its own stand alone moments and I enjoyed finding the symbolism that attached itself to: jewelry, physical characteristics, names, structures and even the humble typewriter. Ms. Rindell certainly did her research and shared some fascinating trivia and details with her audience, not to mention has an extensive vocabulary. The potential reader may be surprised how many times they press the dictionary function on their Kindles to learn some new terminology. Crimes to be solved, enveloped mysteries and perpetrators to be unveiled and a lingering question of will we see a sequel? These are just a few delights the potential reader will find to look forward to with The Other Typist. -read and purchased on my kindle -EGP/October 2013 Just in time for Halloween, I stumbled onto this gem of a read. Like many others, I was transfixed with the idea of a marriage between history and fantasy that would lead to the fun question of "what would happen if a medieval plague turned those inflicted into the undead?" Combining three fascinating topics for this reviewer into one read but imagining only a gory romp through the 14th-century English countryside, I am sad to say I was not expecting much. Mr. Calas has surpassed my expectations though and The Scourge was an astonishing read and the potential reader may be surprised how much they may find themselves thinking about this novel days after they finish. The writing was polished and the details were vivid and added sinister yet striking imagery to the whole narrative. Add to this, the apparent meticulous collection, division of history and topics that were clarified and shared with the reader in an engaging voice and it all equaled a surprising read that should not be written-off as "just another zombie inspired book". True on the surface, The Scourge presents itself as a gory concept of the flesh craving undead invading the already superstitious inhabitants of 14th-century England, but it is about so much more than this. The author melds religion, broiling politics, unforeseen closing messages and dark topics into a galloping journey with three knights in the center of a world plunged into the most corrupt pathetic setting. Although there are a few anachronistic terms used in the narrative and the use of repetitive forced tension became at times predictable these only intrude on the observer briefly before jerking the reader back to the grisly world and heart pounding epic Mr. Calas has created for his readers that is The Scourge. -read and purchased on kindle Books in this series: *The Scourge (The Scourge #1) by Roberto Calas Nostrum (The Scourge #2) by Roberto Calas Emaculum (The Scourge #3) by Roberto Calas -EGP/October 2013 The Iron King is an outstanding example of haunting historical fiction, the first of seven novels that this reviewer is now eager to appreciate. With all the shadowy depths of political intrigue, corresponding court and the turmoil that eventually devoured those figures of the 14th century, The Iron King had me reading long into the night. The Iron King is a fast paced saga that is sure to entertain as well as enlighten readers on the brutal savagery and corrupt practices conducted within Europe in the 14th century. A warning to the eager reader, The Iron King is light on character building and focuses more on: plot, drama, successions of revenge, murder, graphic torture and its political "necessity". Abandon all notions on finding a fluffy read here, Mr. Druon has left a dramatic stamp on the historical fiction genre that will stay with the reader days after finishing. -read and purchased on nook then repurchased for kindle Books in this series: *The Iron King (The Accursed Kings, Book 1) by Maurice Druon The Strangled Queen (The Accursed Kings, Book 2) by Maurice Druon The Poisoned Crown (The Accursed Kings, Book 3) by Maurice Druon The Royal Succession (The Accursed Kings, Book 4) by Maurice Druon The She-Wolf (The Accursed Kings, Book 5) by Maurice Druon The Lily and the Lion (The Accursed Kings, Book 6) by Maurice Druon The King Without a Kingdom (The Accursed Kings, Book 7) by Maurice Druon -EGP/July 2013 The Nightingale Cipher is a brilliant historical thriller that revolves around London at the end of a turmoil filled year of 1752. With classic action, authentic dialogue, character dramatization and a truly fascinating plot; The Nightingale Cipher may have been missed by quite a few readers. Expect the unexpected with this novel, as we follow Miss Alice Taylor from Exeter Court to Queen's Square (and everywhere between) as she hears the bells of the surrounding churches sound the countdown to the answers of the nightingale cipher and the identity of the anonymous being only known as "Jupiter". Political intrigue and classic mystery captures the attention of the reader as Mr. Clear weaves a sinister tale that leaves the reader gasping for air on the final page. In the end, I was seriously surprised how well this novel ended. It captured my attention from the first sentence to the final. The action filled scenes never stopped but had this perfect flow that didn't impede on a fascinating story line. The author has a talent with description that leaves a vivid mind racing with the characters as the twists and turns of this novel gallop onward. The only negative that I can report, is the somewhat over exaggeration on a few scenes and slight believability, but those can be forgiven with such wonderful unforeseen dark twists that will catch even the most seasoned reader off guard. -purchased and read on kindle -EGP/June 2013 Allow your mind to escape from the stereotype of "Fantasy" I never considered myself an admirer of the whole Fantasy genre. There was always a fine line I would never cross over. However, I think I have stumbled onto something very special with A Game of Thrones and the whole A Song of Ice and Fire series. I was pleasantly surprised with this work. Never have I read a book where the chapters are separated into individual characters points of view, centered around that one character and their whole environment-it was very refreshing and brilliant of the author. I have found a little patience is asked of the potential reader when first entering the world of the Seven Kingdoms. The separate chapters and introductions of key characters may seem never ending, but with some interest and an open "trusting" mind follow Mr. Martin into his ever growing epic. However, if you find yourself completely lost with keeping which characters are "direwolf", "lion", or "stag"--flip to the back of the books and discover complete lists of houses, families, alliances, brief descriptions (believe me it will serve the new reader well to reintroduce themselves after finishing one book and moving onto the next). In A Game of Thrones, I overall adored the plot and was fascinated with the research that paid homage to medieval elements: the weapons, clothing, feudal system, battle scenes, war tactics, geography etc. It all just flowed beautifully where you believed you entered into a realistic world with minute touches of whimsy. On the note of "whimsy", I am happy, relieved and thankful to report to any interested readers that there were no to a few cliché fantasy characters/species. A Game of Thrones (as well as the whole series) is full of betrayal, adventure, drama, mystery, and classic revenge. I found myself gasping when thrilling and dismal surprises touched heroes and villains alike. Throughout the novel(s) the evidence of "grey" characters was an unexpected change from the usual light and dark personalities. The reader will also find that Mr. Martin has a talent to capture and bottle the element of foreshadowing (every "symbol" has a meaning that will resurface with a flash and a boom as the reader progresses into the ever growing plot). I must also note that, it has also come to my attention that Mr. Martin has based his brilliant series on actual history or to more specific the Wars of the Roses and possibly even pulls events and pieces from the hardly mentioned Armagnac–Burgundian Civil War- this creates interest, curiosity for many more topics and events to be explored by any potential reader (you will love History again). The only part(s) in this book (and series) that keeps it becoming a solid 5 star rating (for me) are the graphic sex sections and modern vulgar language. At first, I tried to remember history/ancient beliefs, human conditioning from the Medieval stand point and the warped entertainment expectations of today (sadly, sex sells). All of the needless scenes and language all seemed to sum back to something that unfortunately had to be there to push the realism and sell the product. Realism and product marketing aside, I must confess after awhile the graphic scenes and cussing (that seemed to come out of nowhere) started to wear on me and I desperately wished them gone from my vivid imagination. All negative aspects aside, I am very happy I stumbled upon this series and highly recommend for those readers who wish to escape from the stereotype of "fantasy". -Reviewed January 2011, review written 2011, first read and purchased on my nook then purchased title for my kindle Books in this series: *A Game of Thrones (A Song of Ice and Fire, #1) by George R.R. Martin A Clash of Kings (A Song of Ice and Fire, #2) by George R.R. Martin A Storm of Swords (A Song of Ice and Fire, #3) by George R.R. Martin A Feast for Crows (A Song of Ice and Fire, #4) by George R.R. Martin A Dance with Dragons (A Song of Ice and Fire, #5) by George R.R. Martin *Last two books have no release date set and titles may change before final publication The Winds of Winter (A Song of Ice and Fire, #6) by George R.R. Martin A Dream of Spring (A Song of Ice and Fire, #7) by George R.R. Martin An entertaining retelling and expansion of a myth that has captivated humans since the 6th century. In The Winter King Mr. Cornwell weaves a tale that captures the reader and transports them into the realistic world of Early Britain during the Dark Ages complete with all the brutal savagery that satisfies the reader's most dark curiosities. Abandon all preconceived images of the "heroes" of the Arthur legend, the author has challenged all our images and spun those one-note characters of legend into a rich tapestry of complex, emotional, and riveting entities that just leap off the pages. Battle scenes galore will meet the reader and the author's artistry with descriptions of geography and the grittiness of early human life will cause you to read far into the night. It's very hard to put down this book, once you enter the unpredictable kingdom of Dumnonia and its surrounding realms. In the end however, there were a few topics and details that brought down my overall rating: combating and shockingly insulting Religious topics (that began to upset and bore me), long political and war strategies (that unfortunately dragged the overall pace of the story down), repetitive scenes/ actions and curses, the continued almost uncharacteristic emotional displays of strong male characters, Arthur's portrayal etc. Overall, I would still recommend this book and will read the next two in this series. Mr. Cornwell has broken any mold I have ever experienced or known that existed and paints with his pen a world that I will be pleased to enter again. -First read at local library and then purchased title for kindle Books in this series: The Winter King (The Arthur Books #1) by Bernard Cornwell Enemy of God (The Arthur Books #2) by Bernard Cornwell Excalibur (The Arthur Books #3) by Bernard Cornwell -EGP/ April 2012 With as many depths as the sea, The Lifeboat is a multifaceted jewel of a debut novel. With as many depths as the sea, The Lifeboat is a multifaceted jewel of a debut novel. This is no flimsy story following the opportunistic marketing trend that seems to currently crowd the library book shelves. The Lifeboat stands alone and shatters the mold to create a worthy novel for those readers who crave a psychological realistic examination of the dark side of human nature with a fictional disaster as the perfect catalyst. The reader will be drawn immediately to Ms. Rogan's ability to capture the late Edwardian era with her attention to research, dialogue and description. With only a few words, the reader will be transported and captivated by the narrator Grace Winter, who reminded this reviewer of the cunning and tragic Lily Bart from Edith Wharton's beautifully crafted The House of Mirth. The characters were multidimensional and represented a cornucopia of human personalities and emotions from the passive-weak heartened to the paranoid and detached, and finally to the cunning and manipulative. Historical details were evenly dispensed throughout and added to the well constructed imagery, a dose of ancient theories are sprinkled in that may surprise the potential reader and finally add a minute touch of religion (but not overly preachy or intrusive); everything falls into its own niche and equals to a perfect consistency. In the end, I was extremely surprised with my response when I reached the final page. I honestly loved it and highly recommend The Lifeboat. Even with the greatest literary works, there were a few wanting or bothersome particulars that normally would cause me to deduct a star but The Lifeboat supplied me with the major morsels I crave when I invest my time and attention in a Historical fiction novel. The book ultimately caused reflection, stayed with me days after and illustrated sublime research pertaining to major and minute historical details (that are usually frustratingly overlooked by new authors) and that is what warrants 5 stars. I look forward to reading more from Ms. Rogan and hope she stays in the Edwardian era or researches the Victorian period for her next work, her voice and talents can certainly carry either. -Reviewed in May 2012, review written May 2012/ copy of THE LIFEBOAT borrowed from local library |
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